By Precious Enaike

Global Lead Pastor of The Elevation Church, Godman Akinlabi has been named a Distinguished Honouree at the 71st Leader Without Title (LWT) Leadership Tribute Colloquium, organised by the Centre for Values in Leadership (CVL) in Lagos, recently.

The LWT Leadership Tribute is a flagship programme of CVL that recognises individuals whose leadership transcends formal authority and delivers measurable social value.

Akinlabi was selected following a merit-based evaluation focused on long-term societal contribution and values-driven leadership.

Commenting, Akinlabi said: “This recognition is a reminder that leadership is ultimately about service and the responsibility to create value beyond oneself. I receive this honour on behalf of the many people and communities whose lives continue to give meaning to the work we do. True leadership is measured not by titles, but by impact, integrity, and the legacy we leave behind.”

The cleric was recognised for his sustained contributions to human development, mentorship and community transformation through The Elevation Church and its associated initiatives.

CVL cited programmes such as the Pistis Empowerment Foundation, large-scale outreach efforts including Elevate 200, free medical missions, food distribution drives, and other welfare interventions as evidence of his enduring social impact.

His leadership platforms, including The Exponential Conference, Vantage Forum, Man Up, The Hangout, and the Business Roundtable were also highlighted for their role in equipping leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and young people across sectors.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of CVL, Prof. Pat Utomi said the honour reflects the focus of this year’s edition, which recognised faith leaders of global relevance.

“Akinlabi’s work embodies these ideals and has produced tangible results across communities within and beyond Nigeria,” Utomi said.

In addition to his institutional and social contributions, Akinlabi’s authorship and thought leadership extend his influence. His books, including I Am Possible, From Fear to Faith, Don’t Waste Your Pain, Grace at Work, Radical Purity, and Divine Advantage reach a global audience, offering guidance on leadership, resilience, work, relationships, and personal development.

CVL noted that the honour places Akinlabi among a distinguished group of African leaders previously recognised by the programme, including Akintola Williams, Ernest Shonekan, Emeka Anyaoku, Grace Alele Williams, Christopher Kolade, and Wole Olanipekun.